US Fusion Regulators Hear from UK Regulators about British Approach to Fusion Governance

Representatives from the UK government participated in a public meeting with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission to outline their progress towards fusion regulation, technological development, hazard scenarios, and government consultation.

On September 16, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) hosted a public meeting with leaders from the British government agencies charged with regulation of fusion energy in the United Kingdom, with presentations on various topics were given by the attendees. A representative from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) discussed the regulatory journey for future fusion power reactors in the UK, the technologies being developed there, and possible accident scenarios. Then, members from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) and Environment Agency (EA) spoke on the regulation of fusion for their respective interests. Those presenting for the Regulatory Horizons Council (RHC) and the Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategies (BEIS) reported on direct engagement with the UK Government and steps to increase awareness and support for fusion energy. After a group discussion, the NRC presented on its recent white paper “Preliminary Options for a Regulatory Framework for Fusion Systems.”

October 19th, 2021